Planning a trip as a 50+ nomad can be exciting, but it’s important to keep your finances in check. Fortunately, there are several travel budget apps available that can help you manage your expenses and stay on track. These apps are designed to make budgeting easier, so you can focus on enjoying your travels without constantly worrying about overspending.
In this blog post, I’ll be sharing my top 8 picks for the best travel budget apps, ranked by reviews on the app store.
I’ve chosen these apps based on their ease of use, features, and overall effectiveness in helping travellers stick to their budgets. I’ll also be highlighting my personal favourite app, which I’m currently using for my own travels.
Whether you’re a frequent traveller or planning your first big trip, these apps can be valuable tools in ensuring that you’re making the most of your money.
So, if you’re interested in learning more about how these travel budget apps can help you plan and manage your expenses during your adventures, keep reading. I’ll be providing an overview of each app, highlighting their key features, and sharing some tips on how to get the most out of them.
8 Travel Budget Apps For Savvy Travellers
1. TravelSpend
Travel Spend is a user-friendly mobile app designed to help travellers easily track and manage our expenses on the go. With its intuitive interface and practical features, this app is a must-have for anyone looking to stay on top of their travel budget and my personal favourite to date.
Key Features:
- Easy expense logging: Quickly add expenses by category, such as food, accommodation, transportation, and entertainment.
- Multiple currency support: Automatically converts expenses to your home currency for a clear overview of your spending.
- Budget setting: Set daily, weekly, or trip-specific budgets to help you stay on track.
- Expense reports: Generate detailed expense reports for easy record-keeping and reimbursement purposes.
- Cloud sync: Securely sync your data across devices for access anywhere, anytime.
Pros:
- Simple and intuitive user interface
- Customizable expense categories
- Supports a wide range of currencies
- Useful budget tracking and alerts
- Exportable expense reports
Cons:
- Limited features in the free version
- Occasional syncing issues reported by some users
Overall, Travel Spend is a practical and efficient app for travellers who want to effortlessly track their expenses and stick to their budget. While the free version offers basic functionality, upgrading to the paid version unlocks advanced features for more comprehensive expense management. If you’re looking for a reliable travel expense tracking app, Travel Spend is definitely worth considering.
Price: Free + Offers In-App Purchases
App Store Review: 4.8 stars • 1.2K Ratings
Download the app here
2. TripCoin
Tripcoin is an intuitive mobile app that simplifies expense tracking and splitting for group travelers. With its user-friendly interface and handy features, Tripcoin makes managing shared expenses a breeze.
Key Features:
- Group expense tracking: Easily create trips and add expenses for each member of your group.
- Expense splitting: Split expenses evenly or customize the split based on individual contributions.
- Currency conversion: Automatically convert expenses to your preferred currency.
- Settle debts: Keep track of who owes whom and settle debts within the app.
- Trip reports: Generate detailed trip reports for a clear overview of expenses.
Pros:
- Intuitive interface for easy expense tracking
- Customizable expense splitting options
- Supports multiple currencies
- Useful debt settlement feature
- Comprehensive trip reports
Cons:
- Some users report occasional syncing issues
- Limited customization options for expense categories
Tripcoin is an excellent choice for travelers who frequently split expenses with others. Its straightforward approach to expense tracking and splitting makes it a valuable tool for group trips. While it may lack some advanced features, Tripcoin excels at its core function and is well worth considering.
Price: Free + Offers In-App Purchases
App Store Review: 4.8 stars • 780 Ratings
Download the app here
3. Expensify
Expensify is a comprehensive expense management app designed for business travellers. With its robust features and seamless integration with popular business tools, Expensify streamlines the expense reporting process.
Key Features:
- Automatic receipt scanning: Snap a photo of your receipt, and Expensify will automatically extract the relevant information.
- Credit card integration: Link your credit card to automatically import and categorize expenses.
- Mileage tracking: Track and report mileage for business trips with ease.
- Expense reports: Create and submit professional expense reports directly from the app.
- Customizable approval workflows: Set up custom approval workflows for smooth reimbursement processing.
Pros:
- Automated receipt scanning saves time
- Seamless credit card integration
- Comprehensive mileage tracking feature
- Customizable expense reporting
- Robust integration with business tools
Cons:
- Higher learning curve compared to simpler expense tracking apps
- Subscription-based pricing may not be cost-effective for infrequent travellers
Expensify is a powerful tool for business travellers who need a comprehensive expense management solution. Its advanced features and integrations make it well-suited for companies with complex expense reporting requirements. However, for casual travellers or those with simpler needs, Expensify may be more than necessary.
Price: Free + Offers In-App Purchases
App Store Review: 4.7 stars • 136.1K Ratings
Download the app here
4. Monefy
Monefy is a user-friendly expense tracking app that focuses on simplicity and visual representation of your finances. With its clean interface and helpful charts, Monefy makes it easy to understand your spending habits at a glance.
Key Features:
- Intuitive expense logging: Quickly add expenses using customizable categories.
- Multiple account support: Track expenses across multiple accounts, such as cash and credit cards.
- Visual charts: View your expenses in easy-to-understand pie charts and graphs.
- Budgeting: Set monthly budgets for each expense category and track your progress.
- Passcode protection: Keep your financial data secure with passcode or fingerprint lock.
Pros:
- Clean and intuitive user interface
- Customizable expense categories
- Informative visual charts and graphs
- Helpful budgeting feature
- Secure passcode protection
Cons:
- Limited features compared to more comprehensive expense tracking apps
- No automatic receipt scanning or credit card integration
Monefy is an excellent choice for users who prioritize simplicity and visual representation of their expenses. Its straightforward approach and informative charts make it easy to understand your spending habits and stay on top of your budget. While it may lack some advanced features, Monefy is a solid option for casual travelers and everyday expense tracking.
Price: Free + Offers In-App Purchases
App Store Review: 4.7 stars • 5.3K Ratings
Download the app here
5. Trabee Pocket
Trabee Pocket is a straightforward travel expense tracking app designed to simplify the process of logging and categorizing expenses on the go. With its user-friendly interface and focus on essential features, Trabee Pocket is a reliable companion for travelers.
Key Features:
- Quick expense logging: Easily add expenses using customizable categories and tags.
- Currency conversion: Automatically convert expenses to your home currency.
- Budget tracking: Set daily budgets and track your progress throughout your trip.
- Expense reports: Generate detailed expense reports for reimbursement or record-keeping.
- Cloud sync: Securely access your data from any device with cloud synchronization.
Pros:
- Simple and intuitive user interface
- Customizable expense categories and tags
- Supports multiple currencies
- Useful budget tracking feature
- Exportable expense reports
Cons:
- Limited advanced features compared to more comprehensive apps
- No automatic receipt scanning or credit card integration
Trabee Pocket is a solid choice for travelers who value simplicity and ease of use in their expense tracking app. Its straightforward approach to logging and categorizing expenses makes it a reliable tool for staying on top of your travel budget. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more complex apps, Trabee Pocket delivers on its core functionality.
Price: Free + Offers In-App Purchases
App Store Review: 4.4 stars • 73 Ratings
Download the app here
6. PocketGuard
PocketGuard is a smart budgeting and expense tracking app that helps users take control of their finances. With its intelligent features and personalized insights, PocketGuard makes it easy to understand your spending habits and make informed financial decisions.
Key Features:
- Automatic expense categorization: PocketGuard automatically categorizes your expenses for easy tracking.
- In My Pocket: See how much money you have available after accounting for bills and savings goals.
- Personalized budgets: Create custom budgets based on your income and spending habits.
- Bill tracking: Keep track of upcoming bills and get reminders to avoid late payments.
- Savings goals: Set and track progress towards your savings goals.
Pros:
- Intelligent expense categorization
- Useful “In My Pocket” feature for quick budget overview
- Personalized budgets based on your financial situation
- Helpful bill tracking and reminders
- Goal-oriented savings tracking
Cons:
- Some users report issues with automatic expense categorization accuracy
- Limited customization options for budget categories
PocketGuard is an excellent choice for users who want a comprehensive budgeting and expense tracking app. Its intelligent features and personalized insights make it easy to understand your financial situation and make informed decisions. While it may have some limitations, PocketGuard is a powerful tool for taking control of your finances.
Price: Free + Offers In-App Purchases
App Store Review: 4.6 stars • 7K Ratings
Download the app here
7. Splitwise
Splitwise is a user-friendly app designed to simplify the process of splitting expenses and managing IOUs between friends, family, and roommates. With its intuitive interface and helpful features, Splitwise takes the hassle out of shared expenses.
Key Features:
- Expense splitting: Easily split expenses between multiple people, with options for custom splits.
- IOU tracking: Keep track of who owes whom and settle debts within the app.
- Group expenses: Create groups for recurring expenses, such as household bills or travel costs.
- Itemized receipts: Split itemized receipts for accurate cost division.
- Email reminders: Send email reminders to friends who owe you money.
Pros:
- Intuitive interface for easy expense splitting
- Customizable split options for flexibility
- Useful IOU tracking and settlement features
- Itemized receipt splitting for accuracy
- Helpful email reminders for pending debts
Cons:
- Some users report syncing issues between devices
- Limited currency options compared to travel-focused expense apps
Splitwise is an indispensable tool for anyone who frequently splits expenses with others. Its user-friendly approach to expense splitting and IOU management makes it a valuable app for roommates, friends, and travelers alike. While it may have some limitations, Splitwise excels at its core function and is well worth considering.
Price: Free + Offers In-App Purchases
App Store Review: 3.4 stars • 11.5K Ratings
Download the app here
8. Wanderlog
Wanderlog is an all-in-one travel planning app that goes beyond simple budgeting. With its extensive features and user-friendly interface, Wanderlog helps travelers plan, organize, and budget for their trips with ease.
Key Features:
- Itinerary planning: Create detailed itineraries with activities, transportation, and accommodations.
- Collaborative planning: Invite friends and family to collaborate on trip planning.
- Expense tracking: Log and categorize expenses for easy budgeting.
- Packing lists: Create and customize packing lists for your trips.
- Offline access: Access your trip information offline, perfect for travel in low-connectivity areas.
Pros:
- Comprehensive travel planning features
- Collaborative planning for group trips
- Useful expense tracking and budgeting
- Customizable packing lists
- Offline access for convenience
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve compared to simpler travel apps
- Some users report slow syncing times
Wanderlog is the perfect app for travelers who want a comprehensive solution for planning, organizing, and budgeting their trips. Its extensive features and collaborative planning options make it ideal for group travel and detailed itineraries. While it may have a slightly steeper learning curve, Wanderlog’s all-in-one approach to travel planning makes it a valuable tool for any traveler.
Price: Free + Offers In-App Purchases
App Store Review: 4.9 stars • 15.6K Ratings
Download the app here
Powerful Companion Apps for Smarter Travel Budgeting
Here are another 3 apps I couldn’t travel without!
From getting real-time currency conversion rates to finding the best deals on flights and accommodations, these are a savvy travellers secret weapons for managing finances and mastering the art of travel budgeting.
Wise
Wise, formerly known as TransferWise, is a game-changer for international travellers. This app offers real-time currency conversion rates and low-cost international money transfers, making it a must-have for anyone looking to manage their finances while abroad. (I love it!)
Key Features:
- Real-time currency conversion: Get up-to-date exchange rates for over 50 currencies.
- Low-cost international transfers: Send money abroad at a fraction of the cost of traditional banks.
- Multi-currency account: Hold and manage over 50 currencies in a single account.
- Wise debit card: Spend money abroad with no hidden fees and at the real exchange rate.
- Transparent fees: See exactly how much you’ll pay upfront, with no hidden charges.
Pros:
- Competitive exchange rates with no hidden fees
- Low-cost international money transfers
- User-friendly interface for easy transactions
- Multi-currency account for convenient money management
- Wise debit card for cost-effective spending abroad
Cons:
- Some countries have limited transfer options
- Occasional delays in transfer processing times
Wise is an indispensable app for travelers who want to save money on currency conversions and international transfers. Its transparent fees, real-time exchange rates, and multi-currency account make it a valuable tool for managing your finances while traveling. Say goodbye to hidden charges and hello to smarter money management with Wise.
Price: Free
App Store Review: 4.7 stars • 60.9K Ratings
Download the app here
Skyscanner
Skyscanner is a comprehensive travel booking app that helps you find the best deals on flights, hotels, and car rentals. With its user-friendly interface and powerful search features, Skyscanner makes it easy to plan and budget for your next trip.
Key Features:
- Flight search: Find the cheapest flights to your destination with flexible search options.
- Hotel booking: Discover great deals on hotels and accommodations worldwide.
- Car rental: Compare car rental prices and book directly through the app.
- Price alerts: Set up alerts for your desired routes and get notified when prices change.
- Travel restrictions: Stay informed about the latest COVID-19 travel restrictions and requirements.
Pros:
- Comprehensive search options for flights, hotels, and car rentals
- User-friendly interface for easy booking
- Helpful price alerts for finding the best deals
- Informative travel restriction updates
- Ability to book directly through the app
Cons:
- Some users report occasional discrepancies between prices shown and final booking cost
- Limited customer support options
Skyscanner is a must-have app for budget-conscious travelers looking to find the best deals on flights, accommodations, and car rentals. Its powerful search features and user-friendly interface make it easy to plan and book your next trip. Stay informed about travel restrictions and save money on your bookings with Skyscanner.
Price: Free
App Store Review: 4.8 stars • 438K Ratings
Download the app here
XE – Currency Calculator
XE Currency is a simple yet powerful app that provides real-time exchange rates and currency conversions for over 180 currencies. With its user-friendly interface and accurate data, XE Currency is a valuable tool for any traveler looking to stay on top of currency fluctuations.
Key Features:
- Real-time exchange rates: Get up-to-date exchange rates for over 180 currencies.
- Currency converter: Easily convert between currencies using the app’s calculator.
- Historical charts: View historical exchange rate data for your chosen currencies.
- Favorite currencies: Save your most-used currencies for quick access.
- Offline mode: Access currency data offline, perfect for travel in low-connectivity areas.
Pros:
- Accurate and up-to-date exchange rate data
- Simple and intuitive user interface
- Historical charts for analyzing currency trends
- Convenient favorite currencies feature
- Offline mode for accessibility anywhere
Cons:
- Some users report occasional discrepancies in exchange rates
- Advertisements in the free version of the app
XE Currency is an essential app for travelers who want to stay informed about currency exchange rates. Its real-time data, historical charts, and offline mode make it a valuable tool for budgeting and planning your international trips. Whether you’re converting currencies on the go or analyzing historical trends, XE Currency has you covered.
Price: Free
App Store Review: 4.8 stars • 54.1K Ratings
Download the app here
Travel Budget Apps – Summary
Managing your finances while traveling can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and apps at your disposal, it becomes a breeze. My personal favorite for expense tracking so far is Travel Spend. Its user-friendly interface and practical features make it a top choice for travellers looking to stay on top of their budgets.
That being said, I’ve recently discovered Wanderlog and have been impressed by its comprehensive travel planning capabilities. From itinerary creation to expense tracking, I’ll be trying out Wanderlog for my upcoming travels and look forward to seeing what it can do!
When it comes to international travel, Wise has been an absolute game-changer for me. With its real-time currency conversion rates and low-cost international transfers, Wise has made managing my finances abroad stress-free and cost-effective. No more worrying about hidden fees or unfavorable exchange rates!
Another app I find myself using almost daily is XE Currency. Its accurate and up-to-date exchange rate data has been invaluable in helping me make informed decisions about currency conversions and budgeting for my trips.
Lastly Skyscanner, is always the starting point for all my travel plans. Its powerful search features and ability to find the best deals on flights, hotels, and car rentals have saved me countless hours and dollars over the years.
In conclusion, travel budgeting and planning apps are your secret weapons for mastering the art of travel budgeting. From tracking expenses to finding the best deals and managing international finances, these tools will make your travels more enjoyable, affordable, and stress-free.
So, check them out for yourself and whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time traveller, be sure to take control of your travel finances today!
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Travel Budget Apps – FAQs
Is There a Free Budget App?
Yes, there are several free budget apps available that can help you manage your finances effectively. Apps PocketGuard offer comprehensive budgeting tools at no cost, providing features like expense tracking, budget creation, and financial insights to help you stay on top of your spending without needing to invest in a paid subscription.
What is the Best App for Group Travel Expenses?
Splitwise is highly recommended for managing group travel expenses. It simplifies the process of splitting bills and expenses among friends or family, ensuring that everyone pays their fair share. The app can handle multiple currencies and provides a clear summary of who owes what, making it a stress-free way to manage finances on group trips.
How Do I Organise my Travel Budget?
To organise your travel budget effectively, start by estimating the total cost of your trip, including flights, accommodations, food, activities, and unexpected expenses. Use a travel budget app like Trabee Pocket to track your spending in real-time. Categorise your expenses to see where most of your money goes, and set daily or weekly spending limits to stay within your budget.
Is the Travel Spend App Free?
Travel Spend offers a free version that includes basic features suitable for general expense tracking and budgeting. However, for access to advanced features like detailed financial reports and multi-currency support, there may be a premium version available that requires a subscription.
How Can I Minimise Currency Conversion Fees While Travelling?
To minimise currency conversion fees, consider using a currency conversion app like XE Currency Calculator to stay informed about real-time exchange rates. Additionally, using a travel-focused financial service like Wise can help reduce fees when converting and withdrawing money abroad. Wise uses real mid-market rates for currency exchange and typically charges lower fees compared to traditional banks and exchange services.